Ride
Balance, position, effective aids, and confident mounted skill.
The Austin riding school
A real curriculum from the very first ride.
Every rider follows a thoughtful progression through riding skill, horse care, theory, and confidence. The goal is not to move quickly. The goal is to build something that lasts.
See the four levels
$50Personalized trial
4Progressive levels
3Riders at most in groups
How UDJC teaches
Ride. Care. Understand. Progress.
Mounted time is only one part of each student’s education. Riders learn to prepare the horse, understand the work, care for equipment, and take responsibility for the whole experience.
Care
Safe handling, grooming, equipment, and responsibility for the horse.
Understand
Theory, reflection, and a clear reason behind every next exercise.
The complete pathway
Start where you are. Earn every next step.
Placement reflects age, confidence, experience, and demonstrated skill. The trainer’s recommendation protects both the rider and the horse.
U
A playful first experience with horses
Unicorn
Confidence begins with care. Riders learn safe barn behavior, grooming, trust, balance, and supported riding through an age appropriate introduction.
- Pony care
- Lead line riding
- Balance and confidence
- Weekly horsemanship
Up to three riders$295 monthlyUnicorn Badge
B
A personal foundation for beginner riders
Level B
Riders develop a secure seat, control at walk and trot, early canter skills, and the independence required to ride safely without constant assistance.
- Balance and control
- Walk and trot
- Growing independence
- Weekly horsemanship
One rider with one trainer$395 monthlyUDJC B Badge
E
Independent riding with focused coursework
Level E
Group lessons connect dressage patterns, thoughtful transitions, polework, small fences, horse care, and weekly horsemanship education.
- Dressage patterns
- Poles and small fences
- Weekly horsemanship
Up to three ridersFrom $395 monthlyUDJC E Badge
A
An intensive path for competitive riders
Level A
Dedicated riders deepen their dressage, technical jumping, coursework, horse knowledge, and preparation for competition and long term goals.
- Advanced flatwork
- Technical jumping
- Competition preparation
- Weekly horsemanship
Three weekly rides minimumPlacement by trainer approvalUDJC A Badge
Monthly enrollment
Enrollment starts with an individual evaluation.
During the initial evaluation, the trainer discusses a recommended monthly enrollment for each rider based on their current level, goals, and development needs.
Initial evaluation
The trainer learns where the rider is today.
Personal plan
Level, goals, and development needs shape the recommendation.
Consistent place
A recurring lesson creates rhythm and steady progress.
UDJC badge shows
Progress becomes something riders can see.
At home badge shows combine education and competition in a familiar environment. Riders demonstrate practical ability and theory, receive meaningful feedback, and earn recognition when the standard has been met.
Those badges connect directly to the broader UDJC show and competition system, giving every rider a clear path from lessons at home to larger competition opportunities.
See the complete show pathwayQuestions before your first visit
Everything a new rider needs to know.
Does a rider need experience?
No. A trial lesson helps the team understand confidence, experience, and goals before recommending the right level and weekly class.
How is the starting level chosen?
The trial helps the instructor consider age, confidence, balance, prior experience, and the amount of support a rider needs before recommending a weekly place.
What should a rider wear?
Riders need an approved riding helmet, fitted riding pants, and riding boots with a defined heel. Hair should be secured and clothing should allow safe movement.
How does monthly enrollment work?
During the initial evaluation, the trainer recommends monthly enrollment based on the rider’s current level, goals, and development needs. Once placed, the rider holds a recurring weekly place. The first month is prorated when enrollment begins after the first, then regular tuition is charged monthly.
What happens if we need to stop?
The program uses a thirty day notice period. The weekly place remains active through that period before becoming available to another rider.
Are makeup lessons available?
Eligible absences can receive a credit for an available class at the same level. Each enrollment can receive up to five makeup credits per year.